TAKE IT SLOW
As the new year begins, it’s time to enjoy a break and indulge in the simple pleasures of relaxation
Perhaps it’s natural for us to use this period to look forward, devise longer-term plans and think about the months ahead. What if, though, this isn’t the best way to frame our thinking? This year, maybe we could consider pressing pause on these self-induced pressures and try to be more reflective. After all, this is the darkest time of the year, and accepting our natural rhythm is often a more sensible way to approach the new year than simply pressing the reset button and scheduling goals. So get ready to fully embrace 2021 by making sure you’re calm, focused and open to the enriching experiences that lie ahead.
Consciously build time into your everyday life to unwind and take a break
HOME COMFORTS
A peaceful environment is a significant factor to feeling calm, so take the time to carve out the perfect spots for a little you-time. Natural textures will introduce a sense of tranquillity to any space – in the first few months of the year, cable-knit throws and slubby wool cushions, for example, will bring a relaxed look to a room by adding extra comfort. Underfoot, natural floorboards and toasty woven carpeting feel pleasingly simple. Colour is useful for creating atmosphere, too, whether painted on the walls, as a feature of furniture or in your accessories. Neutral shades of grey have a relaxing quality, especially when compared to stark white, while green tones, influenced by the natural world, tend to feel harmonious too. Whichever colours you layer into your space, light is key and, in the winter months, it’s important to maximise natural light wherever possible. Doing so has not only been shown to increase energy levels and productivity, but also makes a space feel more welcoming and connected to its surroundings. One quick way to bring more light into your home is to replace dark curtains and blinds with airier styles that allow sunlight to shine through. These sensory swaps are particularly important at the start of the year, when our homes need to be at their most soothing.
REST & REVIVE
If there’s one resolution worth keeping, it’s to get more sleep. A good night’s rest is nourishing for the body and has been proven to both increase our overall feelings of happiness and reduce stress levels. A relaxed and rested you is always the best you, so start the year off by investing in your slumber. It’s not just the time we spend asleep that matters, but the quality of it too – for a sleep that ticks all the boxes, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, make sure your mattress is right for you. If it’s uneven or uncomfortable, it may result in a sleepless night, so consider the various try-before-you-buy ‘home trials’ from retailers such as Emma (emma-mattress.co.uk) and Simba (simbasleep.com). For a further layer of comfort, a mattress topper is a must-have: try the hypoallergenic styles from The Wool Room (thewoolroom.com). Temperature is another important factor – set your thermostat to fall as the night moves on and invest in bedding made from breathable fabrics, such as high quality cotton and linen. A two-in-one duvet that features interchangeable summer and winter togs is a good option too, and one that will see you wake up on the right side of bed whatever the season. For a therapeutic addition to your nightly ritual, spray your pillows with a natural scent just before you slip into bed.
NATURAL CALM
It’s important to consciously build time into your everyday life to unwind and take a break. Indulging in a soak in the bath is perhaps the most perfect way to relax, as it treats both the body and the mind to a moment of serenity. Create a spa-like feel at home with a few special touches. Aromatherapy oils are good for the skin and will scent the air beautifully – try Espa’s restorative blend of rose geranium, sweet orange and lavender (£30, espaskincare.com). For a natural wash, use a moisturising soap with botanical elements, such as the Exfoliating Seaweed Block by Haeckels (£18, haeckels.co.uk). Finally, dry off with beautiful towels: a luxurious set is a worthwhile investment rather than an extravagance, so choose the softest you can find. Keep your soak distractionfree: if you find your mind wandering, consider learning meditation practices or turn on a calming soundscape.
SIMPLE PLEASURES
As the new year enters its stride, be guided by these principles of self-care. Rather than planning things to fine detail, perhaps this is the year to simply live in the moment and enjoy whatever comes next. The best way to do that? By feeling calm, refreshed and ready to go.